Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim

Alhamdullilahi Rabbil `Alameen Wasaalatu Wassalaamu `Ala Asyrafil Ambiae Walmursaleen, Saidina Muhammadin Wa’alaa Aalihiee Wasahbihee Ajama’een 

 

Assalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh, and a very good morning.

Haji Ibrahim Khalili bin Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Rahman, Managing Director, SPHI Marine Sdn Bhd;

Haji Mohammad Nazri Bin Haji Mohammad Yusof, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications;

Mr Adeleye Falade, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer of Brunei LNG Sdn Bhd;

Senior Officials, Ladies and Gentlemen;

1. It is truly a pleasure to be here this morning and I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Management of SPHI Marine for inviting me to this momentous event. A big Congratulations! goes to the Directors, Shareholders, and Management of SPHI Marine on the occasion of today’s Commencement Ceremony to mark the successful delivery of their three Rotor Tug Vessels to Brunei LNG.

2. What makes this milestone more significant is the fact that these vessels are the first fully locally owned, financed, flagged and operated Escort Terminal Tugs for Brunei LNG. Brunei LNG has long been recognized globally as one of the safest and most reliable suppliers of LNG. It is therefore a matter of great pride that, a local Bruneian company has now been entrusted with the critical responsibility of supporting the year-round LNG tanker loading and delivery schedules. This milestone is a testament to the growing capabilities of our local companies.

3. The Government of Brunei Darussalam remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting local participation and development within the maritime sector. We continue to focus on nurturing Bruneian-owned businesses in maritime services by implementing supportive policies. Our aim is to ensure that local companies have access to opportunities traditionally dominated by international entities and play a significant role in port and shipping services.

4. Furthermore, Brunei Darussalam is actively engaged in international maritime affairs, where we advocate for the interest of our local industry, helping to create a thriving and more competitive maritime sector at home.

5. One of our primary objectives is the growth and development of the port and shipping industries. A vibrant and dynamic maritime ecosystem is crucial to fostering local business success. Currently, 78 vessels are registered under the Brunei flag, ranging from gas carriers to offshore support vessels. With the addition of SPHI Marine’s Escort Terminal Tugs, this number will further increase, representing yet another stride toward expanding the presence of Brunei-flagged vessels. 

6. We strongly encourage greater local participation in the maritime sector and hope to see even more vessels registered under the Brunei flag in the future. This will not only enhance our national fleet but also create a wealth of opportunities for local businesses, fostering a more competitive and sustainable maritime industry. We are confident that Brunei companies can have the means to be more prominent in the region, and we remain supportive to their continued growth and development.

7. At this juncture, I wish to also recognize Brunei LNG’s local business development drive and mission to offer local employment opportunities. The delivery and commencement of SPHI Marine’s three locally owned and flagged Escort Terminal Tugs is a testament of Brunei LNG’s efforts and marks another significant step forward in local business development. This achievement not only provides valuable job opportunities for Bruneians, both onshore and offshore, but also helps equip our workforce with the necessary skills and expertise to contribute to the industry and the nation as a whole.

8. As we celebrate this milestone, it serves as witness on the importance and power of collaboration, resilience, and determination shown by all parties – regulators, businesses and our own local talent. Together, we can make considerable progress in elevating Brunei’s maritime industry, demonstrating that, given the opportunity, Bruneian companies are more than capable of meeting international industry standards.

9. We are heartened that this endeavor aligns seamlessly with our national goals of fostering a thriving and competitive maritime industry that is safe, secure, sustainable, and resilient while continuously striving for growth. Our commitment to creating an environment in which local businesses can prosper remains unwavering, and we look forward to witnessing even greater participation from Bruneian companies in this vital industry. We hope to see an increase in locally owned and operated marine vessels, as well as an increase in local employment, ensuring that the benefits of this industry are shared widely among our people.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

10. Recently we also observed the celebration of World Maritime Day on 26th September, with the theme Navigating the Future: Safety First! I believe that this also serves as a timely call to mind for SPHI Marine and those associated with the operations, that as you embark on this new journey, to always remain focused on maintaining the highest standard of safety to ensure the protection of people, environment and assets. I encourage you all to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity in your work.

11.  Looking ahead, we envision a Brunei Darussalam where local companies play a pivotal role in shaping the maritime industry, supported by robust governance and an unwavering dedication to excellence. The journey has not been without its challenges, but today’s achievement proves that, through unity and perseverance, we can accomplish great things. 

12.  I would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to the Management of SPHI Marine, Brunei LNG, and all parties involved in making this milestone possible. It is my hope that this success will inspire even greater collaboration and growth in our maritime sector, contributing to the continued prosperity and advancement of our beloved nation.

Thank you.

Wabillahi Taufik Walhidayah, Wassalamu Alaikum Warrahmatullahi Wabarakatuh.